Sean- Great topic!!
Like you I've never been into the whole scotch/whisky/bourbon thing until just recently when I purchase a small bottle of Maker's Mark. I shared it with my bro in-law and fellow CA member Paul (CBI_2). We both agreed that it was smooooooooooooooth, especially after the 2nd bottle.
We drank it poured over a few cubes of ice and it has a distinct vanilla taste.
Not that I'm all that experienced in bourbon, but I highly recommend trying a bottle especially when it can be hand for under $15.00
Keep us posted!!